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Ethnic Minority Communities in Merton Research Report www.merton.gov.uk 2004-2006 Ethnicity Research Doc 04 30/4/04 2:28 PM Page 1

Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities Introduction The need for information on ethnic minorities in Merton. b) Overview of Ethnic Minorities in Merton – key census 2001 statistics Merton’s Ethnic Minority Housing Strategy is intended to improve the giving an overview on ethnic minorities in Merton. responsiveness and sensitivity of housing provision for ethnic minority communities in Merton. One of the means to achieve this is to “identify c) Key Issues – an overview of key issues that Census 2001 data indicates housing needs of ethnic minority communities through research and may be of greater importance to different ethnic minority communities. improvement of our information base”. Action 6 of the Ethnic Minority Housing Action Plan that accompanies the strategy includes a commitment d) Detailed Analysis on Ethnic communities. These have been broken to analyse data from the 2001 Census on ethnic minority communities. The down by Census classifications and gives a more detailed picture of benefits of analysing this data include demographic, housing and social exclusion issues by ethnic group.

a) Developing baseline data and updating information on ethnic minority This report focuses mainly on Census 2001 data but it should be recognised communities which has changed significantly since the last Census in that this may not cover all ethnic minority communities in Merton. Cole and 1991. Robinson comment in “Somali Housing Experiences in England” (2003) that Census data often excludes minority groups, such as the Somali population b) Analysing Census 2001 data and coming to conclusions on the who are often defined under the Census category of Black African or Black outcomes for ethnic minorities in terms of housing and social exclusion Other. Specific needs and identities are therefore often consumed within a issues. wider Census category. This also occurs for Tamil residents who are defined under the Census category of Asian Other. c) Highlighting issues that data shows to be of more relevance to ethnic minority communities. Census data must therefore be seen as a useful information source for understanding ethnic minority communities whilst keeping in mind that it d) Analysing the demography of ethnic communities so that there is more does have limits in its usefulness for specific communities. The Ethnic awareness of where ethnic minorities are living in the borough. This links Minority Housing Strategy Action Plan does stress the need for other up with other Government policies, such as the Community Cohesion research to be carried out in conjunction with this analysis and sub groups agenda. looking at particular topics have been started.

e) Help identify growth and change amongst ethnic minority communities The Census 2001 analysis is therefore intended to be used in collaboration and highlight the development of any new communities living in Merton. with qualitative data, such as focus groups and other quantitative data, such as surveys. It is a baseline document and a useful first step in identifying The Report has been broadly divided into the following sections ethnic minority communities in Merton and the housing and social exclusion issues they may face. a) Key Findings, an analysis of the main findings of census 2001 data.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities Table of Contents

Research Report – Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Introduction

Section 1. Key Findings 3

Section 2. Overview of Ethnic Minorities in Merton 6

Section 3. Summary of Key Issues for Communities 17

Section 4. Black Residents in Merton 20

Section 5. Mixed Race Residents in Merton 28 Section 6. Asian Residents in Merton 34 Section 7. Chinese and Other Residents in Merton 42 Section 8. White Residents in Merton 49 Section 9. Definitions and Methodology 65

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities 1 - Key Findings Many ethnic groups are achieving slightly above or slightly below (a) Divergence of needs between ethnic groups average outcomes in terms of housing, education, employment and social exclusion issues. A number of ethnic groups have significantly lower than average outcomes in terms of housing, education, employment and social White British, White Irish, Mixed Race Asian and White, Mixed Race Other exclusion issues. and Pakistani residents are all achieving slightly above average or slightly below average outcomes. Bangladeshi, Black African, Black Other and Mixed Race Black Caribbean and White residents face significant issues of housing need and social exclusion. This in part reflects national statistics, which highlights the fact (b) Divergence of needs within ethnic groups that these communities, in particular the Bangladeshi community, suffer worse outcomes than many other ethnic groups. Within ethnic groups there is a diverse range of needs with some more likely to live in poorer housing and suffer from social exclusion. Some ethnic groups have below average outcomes in terms of housing, education, employment and social exclusion issues. Although residents with a Chinese, Indian or White Others ethnic background are more likely to have better outcomes than other ethnic Black Caribbean, Mixed Race Black African and White and Asian Other groups, some members of these groups may still face considerable housing residents may face greater housing need and social exclusion issues than pressures or issues of social exclusion. other ethnic groups in Merton. The largest ward population of those with a Chinese ethnic background is in However, a number of ethnic groups have above average the Lavender Fields ward, which is ranked by the Index of Multiple outcomes in terms of housing, education, employment, and social Deprivation as being amongst the most deprived 25% in England, and the exclusion issues than other ethnic groups. most deprived ward in Merton. Census 2001 data shows better outcomes for Chinese and Indian residents Whilst Indian residents as an ethnic group have many good outcomes in in Merton when compared to other ethnic groups. This correlates with terms of housing and social exclusion they still face some poorer outcomes. research carried out at a national level. An example being higher levels of unemployment than White residents in the borough. Residents with a White Other and Chinese Other or Other ethnic background also have significantly better outcomes in comparison with other Similarly amongst those with a White Other ethnic background there may be ethnic groups. This may in part reflect the emergence of new minority individuals, such as Eastern European Asylum Seekers, who may face communities in Merton, who are based in the more affluent parts of the greater housing or social exclusion issues. borough.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Ethnic minority populations are not evenly distributed (c) Ethnic groups may have ‘Key Issues’ which are of greater throughout Merton but tend to have higher populations in the relevance to their communities east of the borough. Different ethnic groups may face different housing and social There is much variation between ethnic groups with some more evenly exclusion issues. spread throughout the borough whilst other groups are more concentrated in particular areas. This may be due to demographic, migration, cultural, economic or social factors that influence at an individuals, community, borough or regional level. Black and Mixed Race ethnic groups are more concentrated in the most Issues or factors that are of the most concern to communities are deprived wards in Merton compared to other ethnic groups. highlighted in Section 2 - ‘Overview of Ethnic Minorities in Merton’ and in Section 3 - ‘Summary of Key Issues for Communities’. Other and White Other ethnic groups are more concentrated in the least deprived wards of Merton. Key issues and concerns have been developed via analysis of Census 2001 data. These have been highlighted where results are very much above or Some areas of Merton (both affluent and deprived), have very low ethnic below the average for the borough and where some ethnic groups have minority populations, suggesting that economic purchasing power is not the much poorer outcomes compared to other ethnic groups. only factor in ethnic minority population settlement. Other factors such as area perception, transport links, community settlement, crime or even movement patterns of existing occupiers may all be contributory factors (d) Ethnic groups in Merton are growing but their population is when analysing the factors ethnic minorities are influenced by when deciding not evenly distributed where to live. More research on this topic is required. Most ethnic groups in Merton are increasing and ethnic minorities will form a larger proportion of Merton’s and London’s population (e) New ethnic groups are emerging in Merton in the future. New ethnic groups are emerging and settling in Merton, most Demographic factors such as increase in childbirth and larger families notably Antipodeans and Koreans. amongst ethnic groups; in-migration of new ethnic groups into Merton and out migration of White British and White Irish residents to other areas of the Two ethnic groups that the Census 2001 data highlights are those with a country, may all influence ethnic makeup of Merton in the future. White Other ethnic background and those from a Chinese Other or Other ethnic group, most notably residents with a Korean or Japanese ethnic Some ethnic groups are actually declining in population. This includes White background. Discussion on the emergence of these groups can be found in British, White Irish and Black Other ethnic groups. Section 7 for Korean / Japanese communities and Section 8c for White Other residents.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

(f) Some ethnic groups are more likely to experience social exclusion

Some ethnic groups have poorer outcomes in housing, employment, educational and social exclusion issues. Taken together these may cause considerable housing stress and need and potentially an increased risk of homelessness.

Analysis of Census 2001 data clearly shows poor outcomes for Black African, Bangladeshi, Black Other and Mixed Race Black Caribbean/White residents when compared to the outcomes for other ethnic groups.

This may be a factor in higher proportions of these groups being found in need of social housing, applying as homeless, requiring housing advice or applying for council housing.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities 2 - Overview of Ethnic Minorities in Merton Black Residents (8% of population) Demographics

Other 13% Merton has a population of 187,908 residents, 75% of which have a White ethnic background and 25% of which are from an ethnic minority.

White background also includes other minority communities these being White Irish and White Other who comprise 3% and 8% of Merton’s population respectively. The following pie charts show the African 38% breakdown of ethnic groups in Merton. Caribbean 49%

White Residents (75% of population) Mixed Race Residents (3% of population) White Other 8% White Irish 3% Black African/ Other 27% White 13%

Ethnic Minority 25%

White British 64% Black Caribbean/ Asian/White 32% White 28%

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Asian Residents (11% of population) Population Distribution

Asian Other 32% Indian 36% Ethnic minorities are not evenly distributed throughout the borough but show both ward level and area level concentrations.

There are more ethnic minority residents in the east of the borough than in other parts of Merton.

Ethnic minorities show different levels of household concentration with some groups, notably Black and Mixed Race residents exhibiting high levels of Bangladeshi 9% concentration. Whilst Asian residents show a more distributed population. Pakistani 23% Most ethnic minorities have a higher proportion of population living in the most deprived wards of Merton (according to the Index of Multiple Chinese and Other Residents (3% of population) Deprivation 2000) than White British and White Irish residents. However, this is not true for White Other, Pakistani, Other and Indian residents. Chinese 33% Ethnic group concentrations residing in the most deprived areas may be ward or area specific. Examples of ward specific concentrations include Chinese households in Lavender Fields and White Irish and White British households in the Ravensbury ward.

Concentrations in the least deprived wards of Merton can also be ward specific, such as population concentrations of White Others in the Hillside Ward and Indian households in the Merton Park ward. Chinese Other or Other 67% More details on the distribution of ethnic groups are contained under sections 4-8 of this report.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Map 1 - Distribution of Ethnic Minority Communities in Merton 2001 Age Profile - Ethnic Minority Residents

Over 65: 5% Wimbledon Park 18-65: 66% Village Trinity Under 18: Hillside Colliers Wood Graveney Dundonald 29% Abbey Lavender Fields Raynes Park Longthornton Figge's Merton Park Marsh

Cannon Hill Cricket Green Pollards Hill West Barnes Ravensbury

St. Helier Lower Morden Percentage in Population 6.2% - 10.5% 10.5% - 16.2% 16.2% - 44.9% Age Profile - White Residents

Age Profile Over 65: 14% The age profile of ethnic minorities in Merton is much younger 18-65: 72% than for White residents although there is much variation Under 18: between ethnic groups. 14%

Ethnic minorities generally have a much greater proportion of under 18’s in their population and a lower proportion of over 65’s.

Variation also occurs within the White ethnic group, with White Irish residents having a much older population than the other white groups.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Population Projections for 2011 Population Growth and Population Decline amongst Ethnic Groups in Merton Population projections on ethnicity will put Merton’s ethnic minority population at 35% in 2011. 160000 Population projections on ethnicity will put Merton’s ethnic minority 140000 population at 35%. This does not include growth rates for mixed race ethnic 120000 origin and are based on growth and decline rates from Census 1991 and 100000 2001. This increases to 37.5% of Merton’s population if White Irish residents 80000 are included. 60000 40000 Trends include the continued decline in White British and White Irish 1991 20000 residents, as members of these groups continue to migrate out of London. 0 The decline of white residents may in part by slowed by an increase in Chinese Other Black Caribbean Black African Black Other Indian Pakistani Asian Other White Irish White 2011 those living in the borough with a White Other background although their demographic profile may be very different to those that are leaving the borough.

The Asian population will show the greatest increase, and will rise to 17% of Merton’s population in 2011, whilst the Black population will also show moderate growth with Black residents comprising 11% of the population in 2011.

The Chinese and Other population, although showing the highest growth rates, is proportionally small. Therefore in 2011 those with a Chinese or Other ethnic background will comprise 4% of Merton’s residents. The greatest growth rates can be seen amongst Chinese, Pakistani and Black African residents. Those groups showing a decline rate include White British, White Irish and Black Other ethnic groups.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Social Housing Housing

Tenure 35% 30% Analysis shows considerable differences in tenure between residents 25% of different ethnic groups. 20% 15% Owner Occupation 10% 5% 90% 0% 80% Black Caribbean Black African Black Other Mx RaceBC/W Mx RaceBA/W Mx RaceAsian/W Mixed RaceOther Indian Pakistani Bangladeshi Asian Other Chinese Other White British White Irish White Other 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Black Caribbean Black African Black Other Mx RaceBC/W Mx RaceBA/W Mx RaceAsian/W Mixed RaceOther Indian Pakistani Bangladeshi Asian Other Chinese Other White British White Irish White Other Black Africans, Bangladeshis and Black Other residents have much higher than average levels of occupying social housing. Conversely Indian, Chinese, White Other and Other residents have very low levels.

There is correlation between social exclusion and reliance on social housing, with ethnic groups facing higher levels of exclusion and are more likely to have to rely on social housing. Indian, Chinese and Black Caribbean residents all have much higher than average levels of owner occupation whilst White Others, Black Africans and Social housing tenure may also be related to how recently a group has Others have much lower levels. migrated to the UK with more established communities such as White Irish and White British having higher levels of social housing tenure. White British and White Irish have slightly higher than average levels of owner occupation.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Private Renting Shared Ownership Shared ownership is one way households can become owner-occupiers through buying a percentage share in a property with a housing association 40% owning the other part. It is one of a number of affordable housing options 35% that helps people get a foot on the property ladder. 30% 25% Analysis of the composition of shared ownership homes enables us to look 20% at which ethnic groups are either interested in or are successful in applying 15% for shared ownership schemes. 10% 5% Black and Mixed Race ethnic groups show higher levels of shared 0% Black Caribbean Black African Black Other Mx RaceBC/W Mx RaceBA/W Mx RaceAsian/W Mixed RaceOther Indian Pakistani Bangladeshi Asian Other Chinese Other White British White Irish White Other ownership tenure than proportions of population would suggest. Asian households have much lower levels. Lower levels amongst Asian households may reflect tenure preference for outright owner occupation as well as the need for larger size properties amongst Asian households.

Shared Ownership

Mixed Race 4% High levels of private renting can be found amongst the Other, White Other Other 2% and Asian Other ethnic groups, particularly amongst many of the newest Asian 7% ethnic groups, such as Asian Other (Tamil), White Other and Other (Korean) suggesting private renting as the main route that new ethnic groups use to gain accommodation in Merton.

White British and White Irish have slightly lower than average levels of private renting. Black 18%

White 69%

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Housing Conditions and Overcrowding Social Exclusion Issues % Households Overcrowded Employment and Occupation Levels of employment in higher paid work varies by ethnic group with some 50% ethnic groups such as the Black, Asian and Mixed Race residents having 45% 40% much lower levels than other ethnic groups. 35% 30% Chinese and White Others have much higher levels of their workforce in 25% higher paid occupations. 20% 15% 10% There is a variation within ethnic categories, such as differential levels of 5% employment in higher paid work between Indian and Bangladeshi residents. 0% Black Caribbean Black African Black Other Mx RaceBC/W Mx RaceBA/W Mx RaceAsian/W Mixed RaceOther Indian Pakistani Bangladeshi Asian Other Chinese Other White British White Irish White Other Black Residents

Remainder 42% Elementary 15%

Overcrowding is noticeably high amongst Asian and Black residents, in particular Bangladeshi, Asian Others and Black African residents. Professional 43% Higher levels of overcrowding may be related to household size as Asian communities are more likely to have bigger-sized households.

Low levels of overcrowding are found amongst White British and White Irish residents, which may reflect older age structures and lower levels of private renting.

Bangladeshi residents have the highest proportion of households who lack central heating. Most other ethnic minority groups have much lower levels of residents who lack central heating in their homes compared to White British and White Irish residents.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Mixed Race Residents Chinese and Other Residents

Other 39% Elementary 14% Other 32% Elementary 14%

Professional 47% Professional 54%

Asian Residents White British and White Irish

Other 40% Elementary 14% Other 34% Elementary 13%

Professional 46% Professional 53%

White Other Residents

Other 31% Elementary 8%

Professional 61% 13 Ethnicity Research Doc 04 30/4/04 2:28 PM Page 14

Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Unemployment Rates Percentage of Residents aged 16 – 24 in Full Time Study Ethnic Minority groups have much higher than average rates of study for 16 Unemployment rate across All Economically Active Persons – 24 year olds compared to White residents. Ethnic minorities have 62.9% of persons in full time study compared to only 30.3% of White residents

12% There is however disparity between ethnic groups with very high levels of 10% study amongst Chinese, Black African and Mixed Race Black African 8% residents. There are lower levels of study amongst Pakistani and Mixed Race Black Caribbean groups. Other Asian groups have high levels of study. 6% 4% 2% Qualifications of 25 – 34 year olds 0% Black Caribbean Black African Black Other Mx RaceBC/W Mx RaceBA/W Mx RaceAsian/W Mixed RaceOther Indian Pakistani Bangladeshi Asian Other Chinese Other White British White Irish White Other Degree Education amongst 25 - 34 Year Olds

80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% Overall, ethnic minorities have a higher than average rate of 20% unemployment, although this does not hold true for all ethnic groups and 10% there is considerable differences between communities. 0% Black Caribbean Black African Black Other Mx RaceBC/W Mx RaceBA/W Mx RaceAsian/W Mixed RaceOther Indian Pakistani Bangladeshi Asian Other Chinese Other White British White Irish White Other

The highest rates of unemployment can be seen amongst Mixed Race Black Caribbean and White, Black Other, Black African, Bangladeshi and Pakistani residents.

The lowest rates of unemployment can be seen amongst Chinese, White Irish and White British residents.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

There is much disparity across residents aged 25- 34 with degree level Levels of ill health may be associated to age structure with older populations education. Very low levels are found amongst the Asian Other, Black having higher levels of ill health. Caribbean and Black Other communities, whilst the highest levels are found in Chinese, White Other, Indian and Pakistani communities. Households Lacking Car Use

Bangladeshi, Other and Asian Other have higher than average levels of 45% residents aged 25-34 who have no qualifications. 40% 35% Although White residents have low levels of 16 – 24 year olds in full time study 30% they do have fairly high levels of degree educated 25 –34 year olds. This may 25% reflect a more affluent population who have moved into the borough. 20% 15% 10% Ill health 5% Levels of ill health vary considerably between ethnic groups with White Irish, 0% Pakistani, Bangladeshi and Black Caribbean residents showing considerably Black Caribbean Black African Black Other Mx RaceBC/W Mx RaceBA/W Mx RaceAsian/W Mixed RaceOther Indian Pakistani Bangladeshi Asian Other Chinese Other White British White Irish White Other higher levels of ill health than other ethnic groups. Black African, Black Other, Chinese and White Others have comparatively low levels of ill health amongst their residents.

Level of Ill Health Across Ethnic Groups

12% 10% Some ethnic groups have high proportions of households that lack car use, these being Black, Mixed Race and White ethnic residents. 8% 6% Asian and Chinese and Other ethnic groups have the lowest levels of 4% households lacking car use. This may in part reflect Asian residents living in larger mixed generation households. 2% 0% Black Caribbean Black African Black Other Mx RaceBC/W Mx RaceBA/W Mx RaceAsian/W Mixed RaceOther Indian Pakistani Bangladeshi Asian Other Chinese Other White British White Irish White Other

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Lone Parents High proportions of lone parent households are found amongst some but not all ethnic minorities.

Numbers of lone parents are significantly higher amongst Black and some mixed Race Ethnic groups. Numbers of lone parents are also slightly higher amongst Bangladeshi and Pakistani residents.

Indian, Other, White British, White Irish and White Other ethnic groups all have slightly lower than average levels of single parent households.

White Others, Asian Others and Chinese ethnic groups have the lowest levels of lone parent households.

Lone Parent Households

25%

20%

15%

10%

5%

0% Black Caribbean Black African Black Other Mx RaceBC/W Mx RaceBA/W Mx RaceAsian/W Mixed RaceOther Indian Pakistani Bangladeshi Asian Other Chinese Other White British White Irish White Other

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities 3 Summary of Key Issues

Demographic Housing Social Exclusion Employment & More likely to be living in: Educational Attainment

Black Caribbean • High population in • Social housing • More likely to suffer Under-represented in most deprived wards • Owner occupation from ill health professionals in workforce. • Low population in least • Older peoples housing. • High proportion of deprived wards. lone parents.

Black African • High population • Social housing High proportion of Over-represented in in most deprived wards • Private rented housing lone parents. low paid employment. • Low population in least • Family-sized accommodation deprived wards. • Overcrowded condition.

Black Other • High population in most • Social housing • High proportion of • Under-represented in deprived wards • Family-sized accommodation. lone parents professionals in workforce • Low population in least • High proportion of • Low levels of degree deprived wards. households that lack car use. education amongst 25-34 year-olds.

Mixed Race – High population in • Social housing • High proportion of • Under-represented in Black Caribbean/White most deprived wards. • Family-sized accommodation. lone parents professionals in workforce • High proportion of • Over-represented in households that lack low paid employment car use. • High level of unemployment • Low level of degree education amongst 25 –34 years old.

Mixed Race – High population in • Social housing High proportion of Over-represented in Black African/White most deprived wards. • Family-sized accommodation. lone parents. low paid employment.

Mixed Race – • Family-sized accommodation High proportion of Asian/White • Older peoples housing. households that lack car use.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Demographic Housing Social Exclusion Employment & More likely to be living in: Educational Attainment

Mixed Race - • Family-sized accommodation High proportion of lone parents. Other • Older peoples housing.

Indian • Owner occupation • Family-sized accommodation • Older peoples housing.

Pakistani • Owner occupation More likely to suffer from Low levels of Study amongst • Family-sized accommodation. ill health. 16-24 year olds.

Bangladeshi • Social housing More likely to suffer • Under-represented in • Overcrowded condition from ill health. professionals in workforce • Homes that lack • Over-represented in central heating. low paid employment • Low levels of degree education amongst 25 –34 year-olds • High level of unemployment.

Asian Other • Private rented sector • Under-represented in • Overcrowded condition professionals in workforce • Family-sized accommodation. • Over-represented in low paid employment • Low levels of degree education amongst 25 –34 year-olds.

Chinese High population in • Owner occupation most deprived wards • Homes that lack central heating • Older peoples housing.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Demographic Housing Social Exclusion Employment & More likely to be living in: Educational Attainment

Chinese Other • Private rented or Other accommodation • Overcrowded condition • Family-sized accommodation.

White British • Owner occupation More likely to suffer from Low levels of 16-24 year • Social housing ill health. olds in study. • Older peoples housing • Homes that lack central heating.

White Irish • Owner occupation • More likely to suffer from • Low levels of 16-24 year • Social housing ill health olds in study • Older peoples housing • High proportion of • Over-represented in • Homes that lack households that lack low paid employment. central heating. car use.

White Other • Private rented sector High proportion of Low levels of 16-24 year • Shared accommodation. households that lack olds in study. car use.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities 4. Black Residents in Merton Map 2 - Distribution of Black residents in Merton Demographics

Key Statistics Wimbledon Park There are 14,626 residents from a Black ethnic background living in Merton Village

who comprise 8% of Merton’s population. Trinity

Hillside Colliers Wood Graveney Dundonald This is made up of 4% from a Black Caribbean ethnic group, 3% from a Abbey Lavender Fields Raynes Park Longthornton Figge's Black African background and 1% from a Black Other ethnic background. Merton Park Marsh

Cannon Hill Cricket Green Pollards Hill Distribution West Barnes Ravensbury Merton’s black population is highly concentrated in the Mitcham area. St. Helier Wimbledon wards have the lowest black population. In the Morden area the Lower Morden Percentage of Asian Residents black population is only slightly more mixed with Colliers Wood containing 1.2% - 2.3% 2.3% - 6.6% the highest black population. 6.6% - 19.6%

Black ethnic groups show high levels of population residing in the most Age Profile deprived wards in Merton whilst a very small number of households living in The age profile for black residents varies considerably depending on ethnic the least deprived wards in the borough. background.

Disparity between concentrations of black households living in deprived Residents with Black Other and Black African ethnic origins have the highest wards and low populations living in affluent areas is the most marked of all percentage of children and young people in their population at 43.38% and ethnic groups except Mixed Race Black African/White and Mixed Race 34.71% respectively. Contrastly, those from a Black Caribbean have only Black Caribbean/White. Segregation on racial lines is becoming of increasing slightly higher levels than the Merton average, at 24.07%, compared to the concern to local and national government, as outlined in the Government’s Merton average of 21.59%. Community Cohesion Reports. Of particular note is the polarisation between some ethnic groups who reside in the most deprived areas of the borough and a large proportion of the White population who reside in more affluent parts of the borough.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Age Profile of Merton’s Black Residents However the ageing profile of Black Caribbean residents means greater emphasis will be required to meet the housing needs of Black Caribbean elders. Black Other Population Projections for 2011 0-17 Population projections for 2011 estimate that residents with a Black Ethnic Black 18-29 background will be 11% of Merton’s population compared to 8% currently. African 30-44 45-64 Population Projections for Black Residents in Merton 2011 Black 65-84 Caribbean 85+ 15000 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

10000

Black Caribbean residents have slightly higher levels of residents of working age, 66.2% compared to the borough average of 65.42%. This contrasts 5000 to lower levels of working age population amongst Black Africans, at 62.86% and extremely lower levels amongst black others, at 43.48%. Older 0 residents with a Black Caribbean ethnic background make up 9.71% of the 1991 2001 2011 population. This compares to extremely low levels of older people amongst Black Others at 3.52% and Black Africans at 2.4%. Low levels of older Black Caribbean 4916 6976 9905 people may be due to time of immigration into the U.K with many Black Black African 3368 6438 12296 Caribbean’s arriving in the U.K in the 1960’s and 1970’s compared to more Black Other 1444 1212 1018 recent immigration by Black Africans and Black Others.

The profile of Black residents in Merton can therefore be broadly divided When broken down into more detailed ethnic groups, there is some disparity between Black Caribbean residents whose age profile is nearly similar to amongst growth rates amongst black residents. The largest growth rate and the Merton average and Black African and Black Other residents who have increase in population will be among black Africans at +91% this is followed an extremely young population. by residents with a Black Caribbean ethnic origin at +42%, whilst there is a decrease in the number of Black Other residents, of –16%. Using these The young profile of Black Other and Black African residents may indicate a population projections those from a Black African ethnic background will large number of residents with families, which may lead to these groups overtake Black Caribbean’s as the largest Black ethnic group by 2011. facing greater housing stress than other ethnic groups.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Housing

Tenure

Black Caribbean Black African Other 2% Private Rented 7% Private Rented 9% Other 2% Social Rent 17%

Social Rent 31% Owner Occs. 74% Owner Occs. 58%

Black Other All Black Ethnic Groups

Private Rented 17% Other 2% Private Rented 11% Other 2%

Social Rent 32% Social Rent 27% Owner Occs. 49% Owner Occs. 60%

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Tenure Further breakdown of black tenants show that residents with a black There are differences in levels of owner occupation between different Caribbean ethnic background make up 3% of tenants followed by Black black ethnic groups with higher than average rates amongst Black Africans at 6% and Black Others at 1% of council tenants. Caribbean residents – 74% of which are owner-occupiers compared to the borough average of 69% and Black African Residents where only Comparing this to the profile of Merton’s residents, those with a Black 49% of whom are owner-occupiers. Residents from a Black Other Caribbean ethnic background are slightly under-represented as council background fall between these two groups with 58% of Black Other tenants, those with a Black African ethnic background are greatly over- residents being owner-occupiers. represented and those with a Black Other ethnic background are proportionally represented when compared to the ethnic composition of This may reflect migration patterns with Black Caribbean groups having Merton’s residents. established themselves in the UK longer than other ethnic groups and are therefore in a better position to buy property. Black residents who are leaseholders of council property comprise 10%. This is broken down further with 6% of leaseholders being black African, All Black ethnic groups show higher than average rates of social housing 3% are Black Caribbean and 1% are Black Other. tenure in Merton and this is especially true amongst Black African residents of which 32% live in social rented housing. Of those with a Comparing this to the profile of Merton’s residents those with a Black Black Other ethnic background 31% live in social housing. This may African ethnic background are over-represented as leaseholders, represent considerable housing pressures amongst these groups. Black those with a Black Caribbean ethnic origin are slightly under- Caribbean residents are only slightly over-represented as social housing represented and those with a Black Other are proportionally tenants at 17% compared to the borough average of 14%. represented as Council Leaseholders.

Black Caribbean and Black Other residents are less likely to rent privately House Conditions and Overcrowding than the borough average with only 7% and 9% of residents from these Levels of overcrowding are higher amongst all Black Ethnic groups ethnic groups renting privately. Residents with a Black African than the Merton average. There is some disparity however between background are slightly over represented at 17% compared to borough ethnic groups. averages of 15%. This may reflect later migration patterns of black African residents. Those with a Black African ethnic background have the highest level of overcrowding at 41.34%. This may be due to the family composition of The Black Population amongst Merton’s Tenants and this group with many families with children. It may also be due to the Leaseholders fairly new arrival of many people with Black African ethnic background Tenants with a Black ethnic background comprise 10% of all council into the borough. tenants, which is above the proportion of black residents living in Merton, at 8%. This may indicate that these groups are in greater housing need.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Residents with a black other ethnic background have high levels of Under Occupation of Housing overcrowding at 27.28%. Level of under-occupation is lower than the Merton average for all Black residents although there is significant variation between Black Caribbean Residents from a Black Caribbean ethnic background have much lower residents, with 32.42% of residents having 2 or more rooms than they levels of overcrowding, at 16.84%. require compared to other black ethnic groups.

All Black residents have lower than average levels of residents who lack Black African residents have much lower levels with only 15.27% residents central heating with 4.5% of Black Caribbean residents, 7.09% of Black having +2 rooms than they needed. Africans and 4.67% of Black Others of the population lacking central heating. Social Exclusion Issues Percentage of Households facing overcrowding problems Employment and Occupation All Black ethnic groups have significantly lower than average levels of Black Other occupations as managers, professionals and associate professionals. Black Caribbean workers have only 37.88% representation in this sector whilst Black Black Others have the lowest figure for all ethnic groups, at 36.03%. Black African African residents have the highest levels of representation of all Black ethnic groups, at 42.61%. Black Caribbean Black Caribbean and Black Other workers both have higher than average rates of employment in the administrative and secretarial sector, which may 0 1020304050 reflect London studies of many black workers entering public sector Levels of Overcrowding employment.

Black Caribbean and Black Other workers also have higher than average levels of workers in the Skilled Trades occupations at 9.77% and 11.6% respectively. Black Africans by comparison have lower levels, at 5.07% compared to the borough average of 7.59%.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Occupation of Black Residents However, residents with a Black Other ethnic background have one of the highest rates of unemployment with 9.35% of economically active residents being unemployed. Black Other Percentage of Residents aged 16 – 24 in Full Time Study Black There is some disparity between black ethnic groups aged 16 – 24 in full African time study although all are above the borough average of 42%.

Black Residents from a Black African ethnic background have one of the Caribbean highest rates of study, second only to Chinese residents, at 72%. Residents from a Black Caribbean background have 56% of people aged 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 16-24 in full time education. Residents from a Black Other ethnic Managers Admin & Secretarial background have 53% of those aged 16-24 in full time education. It Professionals Skilled Trades should be noted that both Black African and Black Other ethnic groups Associate Professionals Personal and Customer Services have slightly higher than average levels of 16 – 17 year olds in their Elementary and Plant population, which may be one factor in high levels of study.

Qualifications amongst 25 – 34 year olds All Black groups have higher than average levels of workers in personal and There is significant variation in residents attaining higher educational customer service sectors with highest levels for Black Others, at 20.77% qualifications between the different black ethnic groups. and Black Africans, at 20.6% compared to the borough average of 12.1%. Black African residents having significantly higher levels of educational Black Africans have significantly higher levels of workers in elementary and qualification at 51.42% compared to Black Others, at 28.43% and Black process and plant occupations, with 17.34% of workers in this group. Caribbean’s at 31.42%. Black Others have the lowest attainment levels amongst all ethnic groups. Unemployment Rates Residents with a black Caribbean ethnic background have a higher than Black residents have a lower than average level of residents who have no average rate of unemployment with 7.25% of economically active residents qualifications at 7.12% for Black Caribbean’s, 6.22% for Black Africans and being unemployed compared to the borough average of 4.54%. 4.41% for Black Others.

Residents from a Black African ethnic background have a higher than average rate of unemployment with 8.93% of economically active residents being unemployed.

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Qualifications amongst Black Residents aged 25 - 34 It should be noted that low pass rates for GCSE’s amongst Black Caribbean 60 and Mixed Race Black Caribbean/White are similar to the pass rate for male 50 White British working class children, so class and gender may be as contributive factors as race. 40 30 Ill Health 20 Black African and Black Other residents experience the lowest levels of ill health amongst their population at 3.15% and 3.95%. 10 0 Black Caribbeans have higher rates of ill health at 8.27%. Higher levels in Black Black Black Borough this group compared to other black ethnic groups may partly be due to the Caribbean African Other Average older age profile of Black Caribbean households, as ill health tends to rise with age. Degree No Qualifications Percentage of Households without car use Black residents have slightly higher than average numbers of households who do not have the use of a car. This is particularly true for Black Other Why are Black Caribbean, Mixed Race Black Caribbean / White residents who have the highest number of all ethnic groups, at 38.64%. Residents having poorer educational outcomes? Lower levels of degree attainment amongst Black Caribbean residents and Black Caribbean and Black African residents are slightly higher than average Mixed Race Black Caribbean / White residents may reflect national trends at 32.07% and 32.42%. that show Black Caribbean male children are more likely to be excluded from school and are least likely to achieve 5 GCSE’s. There are a number Lone Parents of arguments as to why these ethnic groups and males in particular, are Black residents have very high levels of lone parents of all the ethnic groups, less likely to do well academically. Factors for low school achievement may which is nearly double the rate for other communities. include poverty and social exclusion, racial stereotyping, low expectations and higher levels of exclusion. The author Majors (in 2001) argues in his Black Others have the highest lone parentage rates at 19.76%, with Black book ‘Cool Pose’ that low achievement reflects the way black males are Africans at 17.01% followed by Black Caribbean’s at 16.01%. marginalized in society. Other arguments look to the influence of a pervasive street culture, which can affect other ethnic groups as well and is anti school and achievement. All these factors may help explain low levels of qualifications amongst these groups.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Why do Black and Mixed Race Black Caribbean/White and Black African / White Residents have such high rates of lone parent households? There are many factors that may influence the high levels of lone parents amongst mixed race and black households. Factors that influence levels of lone parents are often intertwined and may include:

• A reflection of increasing social acceptance of cohabitation and the increasing economic independence of women;

• Increased stress and pressure due to living in poverty, causing relationship breakdown;

• May reflect Caribbean matriarchal culture which stresses the importance of a female network of mothers, sisters, daughters and where there is less emphasis on marriage. This may in part have developed as a historical reaction to adversity and slavery in the Caribbean;

• Some sociologists suggest single parenthood is associated with low income and poverty, a cycle of low educational attainment and deprivation;

• Other more recent studies suggest single Black Caribbean women have higher levels of economic activity and study, but this is more likely to occur at a later age than other students.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities 5 Mixed Race Residents in Merton Map 3 – Distribution of Mixed Race Residents in Merton Demographics

Key Statistics Wimbledon Park There are 5869 residents in Merton with a Mixed Race ethnic background. Village

Mixed Race residents comprise 3.11% of Merton’s population. Trinity

Hillside Colliers Wood Graveney Dundonald The largest group of Mixed Race residents are Asian / White followed by Abbey Lavender Fields Raynes Park Longthornton Figge's Black Caribbean / White. Merton Park Marsh

Cannon Hill Cricket Green Pollards Hill The other groups of mixed race residents include Black African / White and West Barnes Ravensbury Other mixed race. St. Helier Lower Morden Percentage of Mixed Race Residents Distribution 2.1% - 2.6% 2.6% - 3.9% Mixed race residents with a Black / White ethnic background are largely 3.9% - 4.4% concentrated in Mitcham wards while those with an Asian and Other ethnic background are more evenly distributed throughout Merton Age Profile Mixed Race residents have the highest levels of young people in their High concentrations of Black Caribbean / White and Black African / White population make up. These high levels of children and young people can be found in the most deprived wards of Pollards Hill and Cricket Green. varies from much higher than average at 45.47% amongst Asian/White Extremely low levels of populations are found in the most affluent wards of mixed race residents and 45.65% for Other mixed race groups. However, Hillside and Merton Park. there are high numbers of African/white children and young people, at 52.81% and 61.86% of Black Caribbean/White residents. This compares Mixed race households with an Asian / White background have high to a borough average of 21.59%. Obviously housing issues involving concentrations in the more affluent wards of Hillside and Merton Park whilst children are a key focus for mixed race ethnic groups. very low populations in St Helier, Lower Morden. One affluent, one more deprived. Again this highlights the fact that economic factors are not the only The population of those of working age is much lower for all mixed race factor behind ethnic household location. ethnic groups. Only 33.54% of the Black Caribbean/White population are working age, 45.8% of Black African/White residents and 47.96% of Mixed Race Other residents are more evenly distributed throughout Merton Asian/Whites and 49.61% of Other mixed race residents. but the highest concentration are in Mitcham and Wimbledon areas. Levels of older people varies with extremely low levels of Black African / Whites, at 1.37%, 2.46% of Black Caribbean/Whites to 6.55% Asian / Whites and 4.72% for Others. Housing issues for the elderly are likely to be

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of more concern to Asian/White mixed race residents than for the other However, national data highlights that the number of mixed race peoples mixed race groups. grew by 75% during the 1990’s to around 415,000, making up 10% of the U.K’s total ethnic minority population. Other statistics show that inter racial Age Profile of Mixed Race Residents marriages between Black Caribbean and Whites number seven times higher than in the United States. Nationally and locally it is therefore highly likely that Merton’s mixed race population will increase. Mixed R 0-17 Other 18-29 30-44 Mixed R Housing Asian 45-64 65-84 Mixed R Tenure 85+ Ba/W High levels of owner occupation can be found amongst Mixed Race Mixed R Asian/White ethnic groups with low levels amongst the Mixed Race Black Bc/W African/White ethnic groups. This broadly reflects Black African and Asian 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% tenure makeup.

Levels of social housing are high amongst Black Caribbean/White and Black Population Projections African/White ethnic groups. Population projections for mixed race ethnic groups in Merton cannot be calculated because data required from the 1991 Census did not include a Mixed Race ethnic origin.

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Tenure of mixed race residents

Black Caribean/White Asian/White

Private Rented 14% Other 2% Private Rented 15% Other 3%

Social Rent 12% Social Rent 30%

Owner Occs. 54% Owner Occs. 70%

Black African/White Other

Private Rented 22% Other 3% Private Rented 21% Other 3%

Social Rent 27% Social Rent 15%

Owner Occs. 48% Owner Occs. 61%

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Tenants and Leaseholders Under Occupation of Housing The Kwest Survey (2002) revealed that there are very few Mixed Race Levels of under occupation are highest amongst Asian/White and Other tenants, that were not statistically high enough to comment on. It should be residents at 32.7% and 26.24%. noted that Census data (2001) shows high levels of those with a mixed race black African/White and Black Caribbean / White in social housing. Slightly lower levels are found amongst Black Caribbean and African/White residents at 23.75% and 23%. House Conditions and Overcrowding Levels of overcrowding are high amongst Mixed Race Black African/White and Other residents, at 29.86% and 27.81% respectively. Social Exclusion Issues

Overcrowding levels are lower amongst Black Caribbean/White and Asian / Employment and Occupation White at 19.75% and 20.11% although these are still higher than levels Those from a Black Caribbean and White ethnic origin have much lower found in all White residents. than average numbers of workers in Manager, Professional and Associate Professional occupations. Although levels of associate professional match Mixed Race Black Caribbean/White and Asian/White have high levels of the borough average, the other occupations are much lower leaving only households who lack central heating at 8.42% and 8.13%. 39.83% of residents in these occupations compared to the borough average of 53.11%. Black African/White residents also have lower than average Mixed Race Other and Black African/White households have low levels of levels of 44.52% although levels of Manager occupations is comparable to households who lack central heating, at 5.98% and 3.98%. the borough average. Other mixed race residents have levels of 47.15% whilst Asian/White residents have very near borough average of 53.1%.

Percentage Of Households facing Overcrowding All Mixed Race residents have slightly higher levels of their population working in the administrative and secretarial sector whilst Black Mx R Other Caribbean/White residents have slightly higher levels of workers in the skilled trade occupations. Mx R Asian Black African/White residents have a much higher than average level of workers in the elementary/process and plant occupations, at 20.08%, this is Mx R Ba/w similar to the high level amongst Black African residents and is much higher than the borough average of 11.68%. Mx R Bc/w 0 102030 Levels of Overcrowding

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Occupation of Mixed Race Residents Percentage of Residents aged 16 – 24 in Full Time Study Numbers of residents aged 16 – 24 in full time study varies considerably between Black Caribbean/White residents and the other mixed race groups. Mixed R Other Residents aged 16 – 24 with a Black Caribbean and White ethnic Mixed R background have low levels of study of 45.41%, whilst Black African/White Asian/White have extremely high levels of study of 90.72%. Mixed R Bl African/W Asian / White and Other mixed race residents have high rates of 55.83% Mixed R and 60.16% respectively. Bl Carib/W 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Qualifications amongst 25 - 34 Year Olds Managers Admin & Secretarial Personal and 60% Professionals Skilled Trades Customer Services Associate Professional Elementary and Plant 50% 40%

Unemployment Rates 30% Mixed Race Black Caribbean/White residents have the highest level of 20% unemployment at 11.53%, much higher than the borough average of 10% 4.54%. 0% Black Black Asian/WOther Borough Black African/White have unemployment rates of 7.51% whilst the Other Carib/W African/W Average mixed race residents unemployment rate is 6.41%. Mixed Race Asian/White residents have lower than average levels of unemployment at 3.98%. Degree No Qualifications

There is some disparity of residents who are degree educated amongst mixed race residents. Higher levels of 25-34 year olds with degrees can be found amongst Mixed Race Asian/White at 57.32%, then other mixed race residents at 51.06% and Black African/White ethnic groups at 48.3%. The position of mixed race Black Caribbean/White residents is much worse with only 29.88% of those aged 25-34 year old being degree educated. This is much lower than the borough average of 53.31% and similar to Black 32 Caribbean and Black Other residents. Ethnicity Research Doc 04 30/4/04 2:28 PM Page 33

Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Mixed Race Black Caribbean/White residents also have one of the highest Lone Parents levels of 25-34 year olds who have no qualifications at 13.21%. Mixed Race Mixed Race residents with an Asian/White or Other ethnic background have African/White also have fairly high levels of no qualifications at 8.47% whilst slightly higher than average number of lone parents compared to the Mixed Race Asian and Mixed Race Other have lower levels of 6.54% and borough average of 6.79% and 8.65%. 6.8%. Those from an African/White ethnic origin have extremely high numbers of Discussion on the reasons for poor educational attainment amongst Black lone parent, at 18.07% whilst mixed race residents with a Black Caribbean/ Caribbean and Black Other ethnic groups is also relevant to Mixed Race White background have the highest numbers of lone parents in their Black Caribbean and White residents. Turn to the previous chapter for more population make-up at 20.65%. information. Housing Stress and Social Exclusion amongst Mixed Race Black Ill Health Caribbean / White Households All mixed race ethnic groups have lower than average levels of ill health. Analysis of Census 2001 data shows that Mixed Race Black Caribbean / Black African/White have the lowest levels of 3.81% which is similar to Black White households in Merton have poorer housing and social exclusion African ethnic groups results of 3.15%. Other mixed race residents having outcomes than many other ethnic groups. Higher numbers of these low levels, at 4.15%. Black Caribbean/White and Asian/White ethnic groups residents reside in social housing, live in the most deprived wards of the also have low levels of ill health of 4.66% and 4.84%. borough, have higher levels of unemployment than other ethnic groups and have lower levels of their workforce in higher paid employment. Clearly not all Very low levels of ill health may reflect the high levels of young people and residents with a Mixed Race Black Caribbean / White ethnic background lower numbers of older persons in these ethnic groups. have poor housing and social exclusion outcomes with 12% of residents living in the most affluent wards of the borough and 29.11% of 25 – 34 year Percentage of Households who lack car use olds being educated to degree level. What is of concern is the greater All mixed race households have higher than average numbers of households number of households living in the most deprived areas of Merton who may who lack car use. This is considerably marked among Black Caribbean / also face additional issues. These are unemployment, low educational White residents at 41.05% of households who lack car use and Black attainment, high levels of households headed by lone parent (many of which African / White residents at 36.75%. are less economically well off than two parent households) as well as high numbers of households lacking car use. All together these factors may Mixed Race Asian and Other have lower rates of 34.55% and 32.07%, contribute to high levels of social exclusion and housing need for Mixed although this is still above the borough average. Race Black Caribbean / White households.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities 6 Asian Residents in Merton Map 4 – Distribution of Asian Residents in Merton Demographics

Key Statistics Wimbledon Park There are 20,810 residents in Merton with an Asian ethnic background, Village

which comprise 11% of the borough’s population. Trinity

Hillside Colliers Wood Graveney Dundonald Of this number, 4% have an Indian ethnic background, 2.5% have a Abbey Lavender Fields Raynes Park Longthornton Figge's Pakistani ethnic background, 1% have a Bangladeshi ethnic background Merton Park Marsh and 3.5% have Other Asian ethnic origins, including Tamil. Cannon Hill Cricket Green Pollards Hill West Barnes Ravensbury Distribution St. Helier The Asian community is more evenly distributed throughout the borough Lower Morden Percentage of Asian Residents than Merton’s black population but shows some similar characteristics with 5.4% - 7.7% 7.7% - 10.4% higher concentrations in the Mitcham area especially in Graveney ward. 10.4% - 27.1%

The lowest concentrations of those from an Asian ethnic background can be Age Profile found in Lower Morden. The age profile of Asian residents varies by ethnic group with Indian residents having a slightly older age profile than other Asian residents.

Indian residents have only slightly higher than average numbers of children and young people in their population and higher levels of people of working age. Residents from an Indian ethnic background also have slightly lower than average numbers of older people in their population, at 8.46%, although this is the highest level of all amongst Asian groups. Added to this is higher level of Middle Aged people. Therefore the housing needs of Indian elders may be of growing importance to Indian residents.

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Age Profile of Merton Residents Population Projections for Asian Residents

16000 Asian Other 14000 12000 0-17 Bangladeshi 18-29 10000 30-44 8000 Pakistani 45-64 6000 65-84 4000 Indian 85+ 2000 0 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 1991 2001 2011 Indian 5717 8043 11340 Pakistani 2219 4504 9143 Pakistani and Bangladeshi residents have similar age profiles with high levels Asian Other 4585 8260 14868 of Children and Young people in their populations and average levels of working age populations. Levels of older people are much lower than average at 5.18% for Pakistani and 3.93% for Bangladeshi residents compared to the Merton average of 12.91%. Housing for families may Those from an Indian ethnic background will make up 5.5% of Merton’s total therefore be of particular concern for Pakistani and Bangladeshi residents. population making them the largest singular Asian ethnic group. However this growth rate is slower than that for Pakistani and Asian Other groups. The age profile of Asian Others, including Tamil residents shows higher than average numbers of children and young people, at 24.14%. This may reflect Pakistani residents will increase from 4,504 to an estimated 9,143 by 2011 the relatively new arrival of Tamil refugees into the borough, with large making up 4.5% of Merton’s residents and one of the fastest growing numbers with children. Levels of older people is lower than average but ethnic groups. higher than Bangladeshi levels at 4.58%. Residents from Asian Other ethnic backgrounds including Tamil and Population Projections for 2011 Bangladeshi residents, will comprise 7% of Merton’s residents in 2011.

In 2011 there will be 35,351 Asian residents in Merton who will comprise 17% of the population. This means those from an Asian ethnic background will continue to be the largest ethnic minority in Merton.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Pakistani Residents Housing Private Rented 16% Other 5% Tenure Tenure amongst Asian ethnic groups varies considerably. Indian residents have the highest level of owner occupation amongst all ethnic groups with 82% of residents owning property. They also have the lowest levels of all Asian groups for residents in social housing at 4.53%. This may reflect tenure preference for owner occupation as well as economic well being Social Rent 8% amongst Indian residents. Levels of private renting are below the borough average, at 11.23%.

Indian Residents Owner Occs. 71% Private Rented 11% Other 2%

Social Rent 5%

Owner Occs. 82%

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Bangladeshi Residents Bangladeshi residents are significantly more likely to reside in social housing with 26.24% of this ethnic group residing in this tenure, this figure being Private Rented 8% Other 4% highest amongst Asian ethnic groups. Levels of owner occupation are lower than average at 61.89% whilst levels of private renting are significantly below average at 7.75%. High levels of Bangladeshis in social housing may reflect this group facing significant housing stress and low levels in owner occupation may also represent an inability to move into this tenure.

Asian Others have slightly lower levels of owner occupation, at 65.76% Social Rent 26% whilst levels of social housing are lower than average, at 10.49% compared to 14%. Asian Others have a higher number of their ethnic group in private Owner Occs. 62% rented accommodation, which may reflect the fairly recent arrival of Tamil population to Merton.

Tenants and Leaseholders Asian Other Residents Those with an Asian ethnic background make up 7% of Merton’s tenants Private Rented 23% Other 0% whilst comprising 11% of Merton’s residents.

Tenants with an Indian ethnic background are vastly being under- represented as tenants at only 1% compared to 4% of Merton’s residents. Compared with the profile of Merton’s residents the number of Indian residents in Council housing is very low with only 1% of tenants having an Indian ethnic background. Council tenants from a Pakistani ethnic Social Rent 11% background are also lower than their number of residents, at 1% council tenants.

Owner Occs. 66% Tenants with a Pakistani ethnic background are also under-represented as tenants at 1% compared to being 2.5% of Merton’s residents. This may in Pakistani residents have slightly higher than borough averages for owner part be due to tenure preferences for owner occupation, although national occupation at 70.8%, whilst those residing in the private sector are also reports have highlighted that this group still has problems with disrepair and slightly higher than average at 16%. Pakistani residents are under overcrowding issues. represented in social housing with only 8.39% of all residents in this tenure compared to the borough average of 14%. Those from a Bangladeshi ethnic background make up 2% of tenants whilst being 1% of Merton’s residents. This reflects national surveys, which show

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

high concentrations of Bangladeshis in social housing due to higher levels of Residents from the Asian Other ethnic group have the highest levels of housing need. overcrowding with 45.64% of all households lacking at least one room. This may reflect the housing problems faced by relatively new communities such Tenants with an Asian Other ethnic background (including Tamils) comprise as Tamil who compared to other ethnic groups may be less established, due 3% of tenants whilst making up 3.5% of Merton’s residents. to recent migration patterns. It may also reflect preference to live in extended family units. Those from an Asian ethnic background comprise 9% of all council leaseholders. This is 3% Indian, 2% Pakistani, 1% Bangladeshi and 3% Bangladeshi residents also face high levels of overcrowding with 37% of all Asian Other. Bangladeshi residents lacking at least one room. Levels for Pakistani residents are lower but still above the Merton average at 27.54%, whilst Compared to the make up of Merton’s resident’s the number of Asian levels for Indian residents are 21.4%. council leaseholder is slightly under representative. Indian, Pakistani and Asian Other ethnic groups are all under represented whilst Bangladeshi Most Asian groups have very low levels of households who lack central leaseholders are proportionally represented. heating with lowest levels amongst Pakistani residents at 2.81% and Indian residents at 3.28%. House Conditions and Overcrowding All Asian residents have higher than average levels of overcrowding although Residents from an Asian Other ethnic background also have fairly low this varies between different ethnic groups with Indian residents having much levels at 4.11%. lower levels than other Asian groups. In comparison Bangladeshi residents have very high levels of households who lack Central heating at 9.75%. Asian Other Under Occupation of Housing Asian residents have less than average rates of under occupation, at Bangladeshi 25.43% although there is much variation between Indian residents, with 34.04% of residents having +2 rooms or more and Asian Others, where only Pakistani 18.93% of residents have two or more extra rooms.

Indian

0 1020304050 Levels of Overcrowding

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Social Exclusion Issues All Asian groups have higher than average levels of workers in customer and personal services with Asian Others having the highest level of all ethnic Employment and Occupation groups at 21.8%. Asian levels are significantly higher than White and There is some disparity between Asian groups on levels of employment in Chinese levels of work in customer and personal services. management, professions and associate professions. Indian workers have above average levels, of 53.12% but Asian Others at 39.49% have much Asian Others also have the highest level of all ethnic groups working in plant lower levels than average. Pakistani workers have lower than average levels and elementary industry at 18.09%. Bangladeshi and Pakistani workers are at 49.27% as do Bangladeshi workers at 42.35%. also high at 14.79% and 12.22% respectively. In contrast Indian workers are less likely than average to work in this sector with only 9.19% in this sector Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi ethnic groups have higher than average against an average of 11.68% levels of workers in administrative and secretarial professions although Asian Others have lower than average levels. Unemployment Rates Residents with an Indian ethnic background have a slightly higher than Employment and Occupation average level of unemployment with 4.72% of economically active residents being unemployed compared to the borough average of 4.54%. This is still Asian Other lower than for most ethnic groups however. Asian Other residents have higher than average levels of unemployment at 6.5%. Bangladeshi Residents with a Pakistani ethnic background have higher than average rates Pakistani of unemployment with 7.86% of economically active residents being unemployed. Indian Residents with a Bangladeshi ethnic background have one of the highest 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% rates of unemployment with 8.33% of economically active residents being Managers Admin & Secretarial unemployed. Professionals Skilled Trades Associate Professionals Personal and Customer Services Percentage of Population aged 16 – 24 in Full Time Study Elementary and Plant There is some variation in levels of study between the different Asian ethnic groups, although most Asian ethnic groups have high levels of study amongst 16 – 24 year olds. All Asian groups have lower than average levels of occupation in skilled trade Those from an Indian ethnic group show the highest rate of study for those professions with lowest rates amongst Indian and Pakistani workers at from an Asian ethnic origin with 68% of those aged 16 – 24 in full time study. 3.89% and 2.79% respectively. Bangladeshi workers have the highest level Bangladeshi residents also have high levels of study with 66% of 16 – 24 year at 5.91% olds in full time education.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Bangladeshis who have the highest levels of all ethnic groups for 25 – 34 Amongst Asian Other’s 57% of 16-24 year olds are studying full time which is year olds without qualifications, at 16.27%. Asian Others have only half this above the average of 42% of all Merton residents. figure, at 8.29%.

Those from a Pakistani ethnic origin have the lowest level of study amongst Asian residents and also the lowest amongst all non-white ethnic groups at 70 45% of all 16 – 24 year olds. 60 50 It should be noted that Bangladeshi residents have higher than average 40 numbers of 16 – 17 year olds in their population, which may influence higher rates of study amongst this group. Of concern is the fact that Pakistani 30 residents have lower levels of study at 45% although they have higher than 20 average numbers of 16 – 17 year olds in their population at 3.44%, compared 10 to 2.13% average. This figure would seem to indicate higher levels of study as 0 at 16 – 17 more residents are still in education or training - although this does Indian PakistaniBangla- Asian Borough not hold true for Pakistani residents. This may highlight poor participation in deshi Other Average higher education amongst Pakistani residents. Degree Qualifications of 25 – 34 year olds No Qualifications There is much disparity between Asian ethnic groups in both higher qualifications and levels with no qualifications, with those from an Indian ethnic Ill Health background doing better than other Asian groups. Levels of ill health are higher than average for all Asian groups except Asian Others at 5.47%. Indian residents have only slightly higher levels, at 7.33%. Indian residents aged 25 – 34 have significantly higher numbers of residents Higher levels of ill health can be found amongst Pakistani residents, at with degrees or higher at 63.9%, compared to the borough average of 9.25% and Bangladeshi residents, at 9.04%. 53.31%. Pakistani residents also have higher than average levels at 59.35%. Conversely Bangladeshi and Asian Others have much lower levels at 46.44% and 32.45%.

Indian residents aged 25 – 34 also have lower than average numbers who have no qualifications at 5.03%. Pakistani residents have slightly lower than average levels at 7.43%. Again Bangladeshi and Asian Others have much higher rates of residents with no qualifications. This is particularly true of

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Percentage of Households without Car Use Tamil population because it does not include a separate ethnic classification All Asian ethnic groups have much lower than average level of households for Tamils. It is therefore necessary to look to the ‘Asian Other’ category in who are without car use, with Pakistani and Indian residents having the Census data to determine the population and housing and social exclusion lowest levels of all ethnic groups at 18.45% and 20.55% compared to the issues of Merton’s Tamil community. A broad understanding of the minimum borough average of 30.13%. size and location of the Tamil Community can be established using Census country of birth data. It should be noted that this categorisation does not Asian Others and Bangladeshi residents have similarly low levels of include Tamils born in the United Kingdom. Notably there are 1430 residents households without cars at 21.47% and 24.73% respectively. aged under 16 from the Asian Other group in this category. Also, Sri Lankan country of birth data may also include other ethnic groups from Sri Lanka One reason for low levels of households without car use amongst Asian such as the Sinhalese, Veddas, Muslims and Burghers. The latter criticism residents may be larger household size and preference for multi needs to be seen against the wider fact that the majority of refugees from Sri generational living. Lanka have a Tamil ethnic background.

Lone Parents The Tamil Population is concentrated mainly in the Eastern Wards Bangladeshi and Pakistani residents have high levels of single parents at of Merton 6.68% and 8.07%. This may in part be due to high levels of ill health The highest concentration of population with a Sri Lankan country of birth amongst older Pakistani and Bangladeshi residents rather than family break- can be found in the in the east of the borough in Graveney (at 6.98% of the up as Asian cultural factors emphasise the importance of marriage. ward population), Colliers Wood (3.68%) and Figges Marsh (3.04%) and in the west of the borough, in the West Barnes ward (3.04%). Very low levels Indian and Asian Other residents have lower levels of lone parents, at 5.1% of population with a Sri Lankan Country of Birth can be found in the and 3.89%. Wimbledon wards of Village (0.39%), Dundonald (0.51%), Hillside (0.51%), Raynes Park (0.91%) and in the Morden ward of Lower Morden (0.94%). The Tamil Community in Merton Although some analysis on the housing and social exclusion issues facing History the Tamil community can be established using Asian Other data it should be The Tamil community is one of the newest ethnic groups in Merton with Sri noted that further research on the Tamil community is required. Lankan refugees beginning to arrive in the United Kingdom from 1983 - increased numbers have arrived during the 1990’s in response to armed conflict in Sri Lanka. The vast majority of refugees are from the Tamil population which consist of two ethnic groups, these being Tamils of Sri Lankan origin and Tamils of Indian origin, who migrated to Sri Lanka in the 19th Century and are a distinct ethnic group.

Mapping the Distribution of the Tamil Population Census data is problematic when trying to analyse the distribution of the

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities 7 Chinese and Other Ethnic Groups Map 5 – Distribution of Chinese Residents in Merton Demographics

Key Statistics Wimbledon Park Merton has 5,723 residents from a Chinese / Chinese Other or Other ethnic Village

background who make up 3% of the borough’s population. Trinity

Hillside Colliers Wood Graveney Dundonald This comprises 1% of residents with a Chinese ethnic origin and 2% with a Abbey Lavender Fields Raynes Park Longthornton Figge's Chinese Other or Other ethnic origin. Merton Park Marsh

Cannon Hill Cricket Green Pollards Hill Other ethnic origin may include recent Korean and Japanese residents who West Barnes Ravensbury have moved into the borough as well as asylum seekers who do not fall St. Helier under the other ethnic categories. Lower Morden Percentage of Asian Residents 0.75% - 1.09% 1.09% - 1.33% Distribution 1.33% - 3% Chinese residents are distributed in both the most affluent and more deprived areas of Merton with higher concentrations in a corridor between Map 6 – Distribution of Residents from ‘Other’ Ethnic Groups in Merton Raynes Park and West Barnes in the west to Graveney and Figges Marsh in the east.

Wimbledon Park

Lavender Fields and Figges Marsh in Mitcham contain high concentrations Village of Chinese residents as do Abbey, West Barnes and Hillside wards in Trinity Hillside Colliers Wood Graveney Wimbledon. Dundonald Abbey Lavender Fields Raynes Park Longthornton Figge's Merton Park Some areas of Mitcham and Morden contain relatively low numbers of Marsh

Chinese residents, notably Lower Morden, Pollards Hill and Longthornton. Cannon Hill Cricket Green Pollards Hill West Barnes Ravensbury

The highest concentration of Other ethnic group residents can be found in St. Helier Lower Morden the Village, Hillside, West Barnes and Raynes Park wards, all of which are in Percentage of Other Residents 0.79% - 1.43% the least deprived 25% of wards nationally. 1.43% - 1.97% 1.97% - 3.55%

Low levels of population amongst Other ethnic group can be found in Lower Morden and St Helier in Morden and Longthornton and Pollards Hill in Mitcham. Low populations in both affluent and deprived areas suggest that concentration of population is down to more than just economic factors.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Age Profile Population Projections for 2011 The age profile of Chinese residents is similar to borough averages for Although the total Chinese population of Merton is relatively small, it has children, young people and young adults. seen the highest growth rate, 104% between 1991 and 2001.

The Chinese population does, however, have slightly more adults, at 29.5% Projections based on this growth rate put Merton’s Chinese or Chinese and middle aged people, at 23.59% than the borough average. Other population at 5069 in 2011. Based on population projections Chinese, Chinese Other and Other ethnic groups will make up 4% of Merton’s The Chinese population has less older and very old people than average, at population by 2011. 4.83% although this level is higher than many ethnic minorities. Population Projections for 2011 The age profile of Merton’s Other population shows slightly lower than average levels of Children and Young People, at 19.9% and slightly higher than average levels of young adults, at 20.83%. 6000 There are significantly more middle aged people amongst the Other population than the Merton average, at 34.37% compared to 26.25%. 4000 Levels of older people and the very old are low at 3.18% and no people over 85. 2000

Age Profile 0 1991 2001 2011 Chinese 1220 2485 5069 Other 3000 3238 3497

Other 0-17 18-29 30-44 New Communities – The Emergence of Korean and Japanese Residents in Merton Chinese 45-64 65-84 The large growth rate from those with a Chinese or Other background may 85+ in part reflect the migration of those with a Korean ethnic background to parts of the borough in the last five years. 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

There has been an increase in Chinese/Chinese Other (comprising Japanese Residents in Merton Korean/Japanese) residents in the West Barnes ward. Residents with a Census 2001 data highlights relative concentrations of residents with a Chinese or Chinese Other ethnic background form 4.43% of the ward Japanese country of birth origin residing in the Wimbledon area, specifically population compared to an average for the borough of 3%. The ward has the wards of Village (2.27% of ward population), Hillside (2.07%) and Raynes also seen high growth in this population between 1991 and 2001 with a Park (1.05%). The concentration of Japanese residents in the wealthiest 142% growth rate compared to the Merton average of 104% for Chinese / wards of the borough may indicate that this ethnic group are likely to face Chinese Others. This may well reflect the large Korean population in New less issues of housing need and social exclusion than other minority ethnic Malden in the neighbouring borough of Kingston Upon Thames. groups.

Growth Rates of Chinese or Other groups in Raynes Park and Housing West Barnes Wards Tenure Ward 1991 2001 Ward Borough % increase Levels of owner occupation are high amongst those with a Chinese ethnic Census Census Growth Growth or decrease origin with 77% owning property, compared to the borough average of 68%. Rate (BGR) of BGR This may reflect a preference for owner occupation as well as economic well Raynes 81 117 44% 104% -57% on being for some residents with a Chinese ethnic background. Park1 BGW Those with a Chinese ethnic origin are less likely than average to live in social Raynes 171 213 25% 8% +212% on housing with only 5% of those with a Chinese ethnic origin living in social Park2 BGW housing compared to a borough average of 14%. West 64 155 142% 104% +38% on Barnes1 BGW Levels of renting privately are only slightly higher than average amongst those with a Chinese ethnic origin with 17% of residents renting privately West 176 269 53% 8% +562% on compared to an average of 15%. Barnes2 BGW Levels of owner occupation amongst Chinese Other / Other ethnic groups 1) = Chinese or Chinese Other 2) = Other are much lower than for the Chinese ethnic group with only 51% living in owner occupied housing. Further evidence also points to a growing Korean population. Analysis using country of birth data shows that residents with an “Other Far East” country of birth (excluding China and Japan but including Korean) comprise 1.31% of Merton’s population.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Chinese Tenure Tenants and Leaseholders Those with a Chinese or other ethnic background comprise 3% of Merton’s Private Rented 17% Other 1% tenant’s which is proportional to number of residents in the borough.

Kwest’s 2002 survey (using ODPM guidelines and surveying 10% of tenants) found none to be of Chinese ethnic origin. Although Merton has Chinese tenants the survey does reflect the low level of those with a Chinese ethnic Social Rent 5% origin in council housing. This may reflect preference for owner occupation, economic well being or possibly lack of knowledge of social housing options.

Owner Occs. 77% Similarly Kwest’s 2001 survey showed no leaseholders with a Chinese ethnic background.

Chinese Other and Other Tenure Residents with a Chinese Other or Other ethnic background are over- represented as tenants comprising 3% of tenants whilst making up 2% of Private Rented 40% Other 3% the borough’s population. This may in part reflect refugees who have previously been in temporary housing being accepted by the Home Office and subsequently gaining social housing.

Those with an Other ethnic background are proportionally represented as council leaseholders comprising 2% leaseholders and 2% of Merton’s residents. Living in social rented housing is also lower than average for this ethnic group with only 6% residing in council or housing association property. Social Rent 6% Owner Occs. 51% House Conditions and Overcrowding Chinese residents have higher than average levels of overcrowding with Those with a Chinese Other or Other ethnic background are highly over- 21.3% of residents lacking one room or more. represented as private renters with 40% of residents from this ethnic group living in this type of accommodation. Low levels of owner occupation and Those from a Chinese Other or Other ethnic background have higher rates high levels of private renting may be indicative of fairly affluent and of overcrowding with 31.18% of households facing overcrowded conditions. economically active groups moving into the borough such as seen by the This may reflect the relative newness of many Other ethnic residents into increase in Korean and Japanese residents. the borough. Chinese and those from an Other ethnic background have

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

lower than average levels for those lacking central heating at 7.1% and Chinese and Other workers are less likely than average to work in 5.63% respectively. administrative and secretarial work with 12.36% and 11.24% working in this sector compared to an average of 15.47%. Overcrowding Levels Employment and Occupation

Chinese Other Other

Chinese Chinese

15 20 25 30 35 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Levels of Overcrowding Managers Admin & Secretarial Personal and Professionals Skilled Trades Customer Services Under Occupation of Housing Associate Professional Elementary and Plant Chinese and Other ethnic groups have less than average levels of under occupation at 30.99% and 25.85% of residents having +2 rooms or more.

Workers with a Chinese ethnic background have higher than average levels Social Exclusion Issues of workers in skilled trades, with 10.77% of workers in this sector. They are, however, less likely to work in personal and customer services with the Employment and Occupation lowest rates for all ethnic groups at 9.4%. Workers with a Chinese Other or Chinese and those with an Other ethnic background have higher than average Other ethnic background have slightly higher than average levels of levels of workers in managerial, professional and associate professional employment in customer and personal services and plant and elementary occupations at 58.17% and 54.39% respectively. Of note is that Chinese occupations. There are less than average levels of Chinese working in plant workers have the highest of all ethnic groups for levels of professionals, at and elementary occupations, with only 9.25% working in this sector. 24.12%. This reflects national studies that highlight the fact that Chinese residents tend to be one of the ethnic groups than do well economically, as well as a cultural emphasis of Chinese residents to enter professions.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Unemployment Rates This represents a large proportion of the Chinese community, of this age Those with a Chinese Ethnic Origin have the lowest rate of unemployment at group, who are likely to be in higher paid employment. Those with an Other 3.21%, compared to the borough average of 4.54%. This figure follows ethnic background are also more likely than average to have a greater national surveys, which show that those with a Chinese ethnic origin tend to number of their population with a degree or higher levels of education, at have lower levels of unemployment than certain other ethnic groups. 58.61%. Chinese residents have one of the lowest levels for residents aged However, nationally the level of unemployment amongst Chinese households 25 – 34 without qualifications at 4.69%. is slightly higher than for White households. Those from ‘Other’ ethnic background have much higher levels with no Those with an Other ethnic background have slightly above average rates of qualifications than average at 12.33%. This may reflect the diverse nature of unemployment at 5.23%. those with an Other ethnic background, with new migrants or asylum seekers lacking the opportunity to gain education in their previous country or Percentage of Residents aged 16 – 24 in Full Time Study lacking language skills to access UK educational opportunities. Chinese and those with an Other ethnic background have one of the highest levels of 16 – 24 year olds in full time study of all ethnic groups. Those with a Degree and No Qualifications amongst 25 - 34 Year Olds Chinese ethnic background have one of the highest levels of all ethnic groups for residents aged 16 – 24 in full time study, with 78% being in full 80 time education. This reflects national surveys, which point to those from a Chinese ethnic origin staying in full time education. Residents with a Other 60 Chinese or Other ethnic background also have high rates of study with 71% of all 16 – 24 year olds in full time education. 40

Chinese residents have slightly higher than average levels of 16 – 17 year olds 20 in their population, which may influence the high rates of study. Residents from an Other ethnic background have near average levels of 16 – 17 year 0 olds in their population which should not adversely affect study rates. Chinese Chinese Other Borough or Other Average Qualifications of 25 –34 year olds Degree Those from a Chinese ethnic background have the highest of all ethnic groups for levels of residents aged 25 – 34 with degree or higher level No Qualifications qualifications at 70.64%.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Ill Health Chinese and those with an Other ethnic background have lower than average levels of ill health with only 4.02% and 4.35% of residents suffering ill health.

Percentage of Households without car use Chinese and Other ethnic groups have less than average numbers of households without car use, with only 24.1% and 26.51% of households lacking car use. This compares to an average of 30.13%.

Lone Parents Chinese residents have lower than average levels of lone parents at 4.2% whilst Other residents have levels of 5.09%.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities 8 - White British Residents in Merton Map 7 – Distribution of White British Residents in Merton Demographics

Key Statistics Wimbledon Park There are 140,885 residents with a White ethnic background who make up Village

75% of Merton’s population. Trinity

Hillside Colliers Wood Graveney Dundonald This is comprised of 64% White British, 3% White Irish and 8% White Other. Abbey Lavender Fields Raynes Park Longthornton Figge's Merton Park Marsh Distribution Cannon Hill Cricket Green Pollards Hill The distribution of residents with a White British ethnic background within West Barnes Ravensbury Merton varies widely with high levels in most Morden wards, moderately high St. Helier to medium levels in Wimbledon wards and low levels in Mitcham wards. Lower Morden Percentage of White British Residents 38.5% - 83.8% 83.8% - 89.1% Morden wards have the highest concentration of White British residents with 89.1% - 91.2% Lower Morden containing 81% of the population and St Helier having 77% of the population as white British. This may in part reflect demographic factors in Age Profile these wards, with both wards containing large numbers of older people, White British residents have average levels of children and young people in although the possibility of these locations not appealing to ethnic minorities their population at 20.12%. should not be overlooked. Levels of 18 – 44 year olds are only slightly below borough averages whilst Wimbledon wards contain slightly higher proportions of white British residents working aged people with a White British ethnic background make up than the borough average, ranging from 70% in Raynes Park to 63% in 63.59% of residents. Hillside. Interestingly the most expensive areas of the borough do not have the highest rates of White British residents possibly indicating that affluent Levels of older people are much higher than the borough average, at members of some ethnic groups have the resources to move into these 16.26% with the highest levels of over 85 year olds. Housing issues for older wards or that house prices are not the only factor in ethnic groups locations. people may therefore be of growing importance for White British residents.

Mitcham wards are all below the borough average for White British residents, with Pollards Hill, Cricket Green and Lavender Fields all showing slightly lower than average populations of white British residents, 60%, 60% and 58% respectively. Longthornton ward contains well under the borough average at 50% whilst White British residents in Graveney form only 38% of residents.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Age Profile of White British Residents White Population Projections for 2011

150000 0-17 18-29 140000 30-44 130000 White British 45-64 120000 65-84 110000 85+ 100000 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 90000 80000 1991 2001 2011 Population Projections for 2011 White 141103 135419 130002 The White population of Merton has decreased by 4% between the 1991 and 2001 Census. This reflects the trend throughout the capital of many White people leaving London to other areas of the country. Tenure White British residents are slightly over represented as owner-occupiers Continuing with a decrease of 4% Merton’s White population will have with 71% of White British residents living in owner occupied property decreased to 130,002 by 2011. compared to the borough average of 69%. White British residents are also slightly over represented as council tenants comprising 15% of residents The White Category includes White British and White Other as the 1991 compared to 14%. Census does not include these categories and without them projection rates cannot be calculated. In the private rented sector white British residents are slightly under- represented comprising 13% of white British residents compared to the Without including the White Other figure the White British decrease in borough average of 15%. population would be considerably higher, at a rate of 15% with projections for 2011 putting only 103,525 people coming from a white British ethnic background residing in Merton.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Tenure of White British Residents Overcrowding Levels for White British residents

Private Rented 13% Other 1%

White British Social Rent 15%

Owner Occs. 71% 0 5 10 15 20 25 Levels of Overcrowding

The White British Population amongst Merton’s Tenants and Leaseholders Under Occupation of Housing White British residents are over-represented as Merton tenants comprising White British residents have the highest level of under occupation with 64% of residents whilst making up 75% of tenants. This may in part be due 42.41% of residents having +2 or more rooms than required for family size. to the fact that council tenancies offer long-term housing security to the This may reflect the age profile of White British residents, with many older tenant and there is a lack of mobility of tenure amongst many social housing people whose families have left home, leaving extra rooms available. tenants due to economic and social factors.

Those with a White British ethnic origin are also over-represented as Social Exclusion Issues leaseholders comprising 72% of council leaseholders compared to 64% of Merton’s residents. Employment and Occupation White British residents have slightly higher than average number of residents Housing Conditions and Overcrowding employed as managers, professionals and associate professionals, at White British residents have the lowest levels of overcrowding of all ethnic 54.39%, with Chinese and White Other residents being the only groups with groups, at 9.74%. higher levels within these occupations.

White British residents have a high number of residents who lack central heating, at 9.59%, second only to Bangladeshi residents. This may reflect larger numbers of White British in social housing or older housing stock.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Occupation of White British Residents Percentage of Residents aged 16 – 24 year olds in Full Time Study The number of White British residents in full time study is lower than average with only 33% of those aged 16 – 24 in full time study compared to the borough average of 42% and well below the level of most ethnic minorities. This low level may in part be reflected by willingness of white residents to attend further education outside of London and moving out of the family home. Levels of study amongst White British residents is not adversely White influenced by levels of 16 – 17 year olds in the population as the figure is British near average at 1.95%.

National research has shown that working class white males have 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% significantly lower educational outcomes than some other ethnic groups. Managers Admin & Secretarial Some of the factors on educational attainment discussed in the Black Professionals Skilled Trades Residents section may equally apply to White British youth. Associate Professionals Personal and Customer Services Elementary and Plant Qualifications of 25 – 34 Year Olds

60 White British workers in administrative and secretarial occupations are slightly less represented than average comprising 15.08% of all workers. 50 40 Workers with a white British ethnic origin are slightly over represented in 30 skilled trades, at 8.11% and slightly under represented in personal and customer services, at 10.79%. 20 10 Workers are slightly under-represented in plant and elementary professions 0 with 11.58% of all white British workers in these professions. White British Borough Average

Unemployment Rates White British residents have one of the lowest rates of unemployment with Degree 3.81% of economically active residents being unemployed against an No Qualifications average for the borough of 4.54%.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

White British residents are slightly below the average for those with degree or higher education, at 52.17%. It should be noted that this is still significantly higher than most Asian and Black ethnic groups but below White Irish, White Other, Indian and Chinese ethnic groups.

White British residents have slightly higher than average levels of residents aged 25 – 34 who have no qualifications

Ill Health White British residents have slightly higher than average levels of ill health, at 7.67% compared to the borough average of 7.06%.

Percentage of Households that lack car use Residents that lack car use comprise 29.94% of all White British households, which is slightly below the average of 30.13%.

Lone Parents Levels of households that comprise lone parents are slightly below the borough average for White British residents, at 5.25% compared to the Merton average of 6.03%.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities 8b - White Irish Residents in Merton Map 8 – Distribution of White Irish Residents in Merton Demographics

Key Statistics Wimbledon Park There are 5,464 residents in Merton who have a White Irish ethnic Village

background. White Irish residents therefore comprise 3% of Trinity Merton’s residents. Hillside Colliers Wood Graveney Dundonald Abbey Lavender Fields Raynes Park Longthornton Figge's Distribution Merton Park Marsh The White Irish population is more evenly spread throughout the borough Cannon Hill Cricket Green Pollards Hill with little variation between wards. West Barnes Ravensbury

St. Helier Slightly more of the white Irish residents of Merton live in the Wimbledon and Lower Morden Percentage of White Irish Residents Morden wards than in the Mitcham area, apart from Graveney ward. 1.9% - 2.4% 2.4% - 3.1% 3.1% - 4% Dundonald ward has slightly higher concentrations of White Irish residents whilst the Village ward has slightly less. Age Profile The age profile of Irish residents varies considerably from the profile of both The White Irish population can be found in both deprived and affluent parts White British residents and Merton averages. It also follows findings of of the borough, with slightly above average populations in Dundonald and national surveys, which show a large proportion of White Irish as middle Hillside whilst also showing high population in Ravensbury ward which one aged or old. White Irish residents have the highest level of population found of the most deprived. amongst the middle aged at 30.39%. White Irish residents also have the highest levels of all ethnic groups for older people with 19.8% compared to the borough average of 12.91%.

Residents from a White Irish ethnic background also have the lowest level of children and young people with only 7.17% of the population aged 0 – 17.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

An Undercount of White Irish Residents? Population Projections for White Irish Residents Research carried out by Cara Irish Housing Association argues that there 6000 was a significant undercount of White Irish residents in Merton during the 5500 Census 2001. This was due to many second generation Irish people and some first generation White Irish people ticking the White British Census 5000 category rather than White Irish. Further analysis and research in this area is 4500 required but may be important in assessing whether the White Irish 4000 population is declining. 3500 3000 Age Profile of White Irish Residents 2500 2000 1991 2001 2011 0-17 White Irish 5797 5464 5136 18-29 30-44 White Irish 45-64 In 1991 the White Irish ethnic group were the largest ethnic group (other 65-84 than White British) in Merton. If projection rates are used by 2011 growth 85+ rates in other ethnic minorities mean that the White Irish population of 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Merton will fall to population levels that make it one of the smallest ethnic groups in Merton. The trend of a decreasing White population in Merton seems to be affecting the White Irish population as well as White British. The ageing profile of White Irish residents may mean the housing needs of Housing older people becomes increasingly important for this ethnic group. Tenure Population Projections for 2011 Irish residents in Merton are slightly over-represented as owner occupiers The White Irish population has decreased by 6% between 1991 and 2001. comprising 71% compared to the borough average of 69%. Projections using a similar 6% decrease show that by 2011 there will be Within social housing White Irish residents are again slightly over represented 5136 people with an Irish Ethnic background in Merton. comprising 15% of residents compared to 14% average.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

White Irish residents are conversely slightly under represented in the private Overcrowding levels amongst White Irish Residents rented sector with only 13% of White Irish residents living in private rented accommodation compared to the borough average of 15%.

Tenure of White Irish Residents

Private Rented 13% Other 1% White Irish

0 5 10 15 20 25

Social Rent 15% Under Occupation in Housing Irish residents have higher than average levels of under occupation with Owner Occs. 71% 40.28% of residents having 2 or more extra rooms available. This may reflect the older age range of Irish residents, with older people having extra rooms The White Irish Population amongst Merton’s Tenants and once children have left the family home. Leaseholders Those from a white Irish ethnic background are slightly over-represented as Council tenants comprising 4% of tenants whilst making up 3% of Merton’s Social Exclusion Issues residents. Employment and Occupation Leaseholders however are slightly under-represented compared to the White Irish workers are slightly below the average of 53.11% for workers in number of White Irish residents comprising only 1% of leaseholders whilst professions and management at 51.6%. making up 3% of Merton’s residents. Workers with a white Irish ethnic background are slightly over represented in Housing Conditions and Overcrowding skilled trades, at 10.66% whilst they are under-represented in customer White Irish residents have lower than average levels of overcrowding at services and personal services. 10.77%. They also have slightly lower than average levels of residents lacking central heating at 7.41%, although this is one of the highest figures White Irish workers are also slightly over-represented in the plant and amongst all ethnic minorities. elementary occupations with 13.62% of Irish workers in this sector.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Employment by Occupation Qualifications of Residents aged 25 – 34

60 50 40

White 30 Irish 20 10 0 White Irish Borough Average 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

Managers Admin & Secretarial Personal and Professionals Skilled Trades Customer Services Degree Associate Professional Elementary and Plant No Qualifications

Unemployment Rates White Irish residents have slightly higher levels than average of those aged White Irish residents have one of the lowest rates of unemployment in the 25 – 34 who are degree educated, at 54.04% compared to the borough borough at 3.56% compared to the borough average of 4.54% average of 53.31%.

Percentage of Residents aged 16 – 24 in full time study Levels of those with no qualifications are also lower than the borough White Irish residents have one of the lowest levels of students aged 16 – average at 5.99%. 24 in full time study at only 30%. This may in part reflect white residents willingness to study outside of London compared to many ethnic Ill Health minorities who may have cultural or family ties that keep them in Merton. White Irish residents have the highest level of reported ill health amongst all ethnic groups, at 10.21%. This finding reflects national reports that highlight Levels may also be low due to demographic factors, with low numbers of ill health as a major concern for White Irish residents. White Irish residents aged 16 – 17 adversely affecting levels in full time study. It may also reflect poor educational outcomes of working class white males.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Percentage of Households without car use • White Irish residents have high levels of households lacking car use, at White Irish residents have one of the highest levels for lack of car use 35%, which may further increase isolation. amongst all ethnic group at 35.39%, compared to the an average of 30.13%. If these issues affected the same households then the compound effects for White Irish residents may cause high levels of housing stress for some Lone Parents members of the older Irish community. White Irish households have one of the lowest levels of lone parent households at 4.79% compared to the Merton average of 6.03%.

Could Demographic and Housing Factors Work together to Compound Problems for Older members of the Irish community? Of particular concern for Older White Irish residents are the following factors, which may, if affecting the same residents, cause considerable housing stress and increased housing need for Older Irish residents. Further analysis is required to determine if these factors compound each other.

• Out migration of Irish residents may be economically self selecting, that is only those who can afford to move are more likely to do so. This may lead to older affluent Irish pensioners moving out of the borough leaving the more poor or isolated to remain.

• Single pensioner households are one of the groups most likely to experience extreme poverty and the Irish community has higher levels of pensioner households which may make them more at risk than other ethnic groups.

• The Irish community has more households who suffer ill health at 10.2% of residents.

• Irish residents have one of the highest levels of residents who lack central heating at 7.4%.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Social Exclusion Issues Housing and Social Exclusion Issues Amongst Irish Travellers High levels of unemployment, prejudiced employers, lack of skills for the mainstream job market, lack of knowledge of the mainstream job market There are 15 traveller pitches in Merton and information from the Irish and lack of childcare were all raised by the report as barriers to employment. Traveller Movement in Britain estimate there could be in the region of 100 to Educationally whilst the improvement of the Traveller Education Service were 150 Gypsies or Travellers living in a site of this size in addition to housed praised, there were still issues regarding children and young people travellers. continuing in secondary education. Travellers often suffered high levels of ill health with accidents, respiratory and cardiovascular disease highlighted in The Irish Traveller Movement stress that Irish Travellers have specific and the Southwark report. Depression amongst some of the female Irish traveller individual needs and consultation with them is vital if their needs are to be community was also raised. met. A research report carried out with Irish Travellers in Southwark in 2000 highlighted the main issues facing this community. In the absence of Census data regarding this community some of the main issues raised in the report are outlined below. Further work on the needs of Irish Travellers is required.

The Report on Southwark Travellers highlighted the following information

Demographics The study found a large number of households comprised large families with children. There was considerable community emphasis stressing the need for Irish traveller communities to live in extended family units.

Housing Issues Overcrowding was seen as a major issue with the express need for further pitches on sites. This was the result of natural family growth and the desire to live in extended family units rather than other families joining the group. Maintenance and repair issues of the site were also raised.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities 8c - White Other Residents element in choosing where to live. All Mitcham wards contain low levels Demographics of those with a White Other ethnic background. Key Statistics Map 9 – Distribution of White Other Residents in Merton There are 15,043 residents in Merton with a White Other ethnic background, who comprise 8% of the borough’s population.

Wimbledon Park White Other’s comprise 11% of the overall white population which is Village

significantly higher than the other white group, White Irish, who comprise Trinity 4% of the overall white population. Hillside Colliers Wood Graveney Dundonald Abbey Lavender Fields Raynes Park Longthornton Figge's The large number of White Others living in the borough may reflect the Merton Park Marsh increasing numbers and trend for South African, Australian, New Cannon Hill Cricket Green Pollards Hill Zealand, European and Americans residing in London and South West West Barnes Ravensbury London in particular. St. Helier Lower Morden Percentage of White Other Residents White Other ethnic origin may also reflect Asylum seekers from eastern 3.3% - 4% 4% - 11.1% and south eastern Europe. 11.1% - 18.8%

Distribution Age Profile The White Other population is highly concentrated in the Wimbledon The White Other population contains large number of young adults. Those wards with Hillside, Village and Wimbledon Park wards containing high aged 18 – 29 comprise 32.06% of white other residents, this being the concentrations of White Other population. highest figure amongst all ethnic groups. This may further support evidence suggests a large number of young adult South African, Australian and New Living in the most affluent parts of Merton may well reflect economic Zealand nationals residing in the borough. well-being for some of this group although it may also represent shared accommodation due to social desires and economic necessity to live Residents with a White Other background have the highest percentage of with people with the same nationality. The latter point may well be population of working age, at 79.51% well above the borough average of reinforced by high levels of private renting amongst this group. 65.45%.

The White Other population is lowest in Lower Morden and St Helier wards. Interestingly one is amongst the least deprived and one is amongst the most deprived wards in Merton, again highlighting the fact that for ethnic groups economic purchasing power is not the only

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Residents also have lower than Merton’s average percentage of children and Which Countries make up White Other Residents? young people, at 13.86% compared to the average of 21.59%. The White Other population also have low levels of older and very old people with only Other 8% Eastern Europe 14% 6.6% of residents being over 65. South Africa 20% Age Profile of White Other Residents

0-17 18-29 30-44 White 45-64 Australia/NZ 15% Western Europe 34% Other USA/Canada 9% 65-84 85+

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% The majority of White Other residents have an Antipodean (35%) or Western European ethnic background (34%) although there are significant numbers from Eastern Europe (14%) and North America (9%). Population Projections Because the White Other classification was only introduced in the 2001 Census it is not possible to make a projections for the White Other population for 2011. Anecdotal evidence including South African specialist shops in Raynes Park and Wimbledon may point to an increase in this population for the future.

Who makes up the White Other Population? Because Census 2001 data has only three white categories - White British, White Irish and White Other – many non British White ethnic groups are categorised under the White Other category. Analysis of country of birth data is useful in trying to assess which are the main ethnic groups of White Others in Merton. As previously stated, anecdotal evidence points towards large numbers of Antipodeans residing in the Wimbledon area of Merton. Country of birth data confirms this with 3041 residents having a South African country of birth origin, 1327 residents having an Australian country of birth origin and 938 having a New Zealand country of birth origin.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

The White Other category also includes asylum seekers from eastern and Housing southern Europe who may be in greater housing need. Tenure of White Other Residents Residents with a White Other ethnic background make up 5% of leaseholders whilst comprising 8% of Merton’s population. Private Rented 39% Other 2% Housing Conditions and Overcrowding White Others face higher than average levels of overcrowding with 18.2% of residents lacking at least one room for their household size.

Residents with a White Other ethnic background have the lowest levels of residents who lack central heating amongst all white groups at 4.75%.

Social Rent 6% Owner Occs. 53% Overcrowding Levels amongst White Others Ethnic Group

White Others are also largely under represented as social housing tenants with only 6% of those with a White Other ethnic background living in social housing which is one of the lowest levels for all ethnic groups and well below the average for Merton of 14%. White Other White Others are disproportionately over-represented in private rented housing with 39% of those with a white other ethnic background living in this sector compared to the borough average of 15%. 0 5 10 15 20 25 Levels of Overcrowding The White Other population amongst Merton’s Tenants and Leaseholders Those with a White Other background comprise 2% of tenants whilst comprising 8% of Merton’s population. They are therefore significantly under- represented as council tenants. This may in part be due to tenure preference against social housing for more well off White Others or area preference, with a majority concentrated in the Wimbledon wards whereas the majority of Merton’s housing stock is in the Mitcham area.

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Under Occupation and Housing Employment by Occupation White Others have the lowest of all the White groups levels in under occupation with 37.91% or residents having two or more extra rooms available for use.

White Social Exclusion Issues Other Employment and Occupation White Other workers have significantly higher levels than average of managers, professionals and associate professionals with 61.18% of White Other workers employed in these occupations. This compares to an average 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% of 53.11%. Managers Admin & Secretarial Personal and Professionals Skilled Trades Customer Services White Others have slightly lower than average number of workers Associate Professional Elementary and Plant employed in administrative and secretarial work at 14.64% and skilled trades at 5.93%. White Others have much lower than average number of Unemployment Rates workers in customer and personal services, at 10.06% and plant and White Others have slightly lower rates of unemployment than the borough elementary occupations at 8.14%. The economic profile of many white other average of 4.54%, being 4.35%. workers shows the greatest number or workers in management and professions and the fewest number of workers in plant and elementary work. Percentage of Residents aged 16 – 24 in full time study This signifies that many White Other workers may be in higher earning Residents from a White Other background have the lowest levels of study at occupations than most other ethnic groups in Merton. 28%, which is well below the borough average of 42%. This may in part reflect willingness of white other residents to study at universities outside of London or the demographic profile of many white residents who have moved here from other countries after finishing their education.

Levels of study may be adversely affected by extremely low levels of 16 – 17 year olds in the population with only 0.86% of White Others being of this age group.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities

Qualifications of 25 – 34 Year Olds White Other Residents – Increasingly Young and Increasingly Affluent? 70 60 Analysis of Census 2001 data shows significantly better outcomes for those 50 with a White Other ethnic background compared to other minorities 40 including White British and White Irish. The fact that a significant proportion 30 of the White Other population is concentrated in the more affluent parts of 20 the borough, notably the Wimbledon area (the wards of Hillside, the Village, Dundonald and Raynes Park) shows evidence of a young and affluent 10 population. 0 White Others Borough Average Anecdotal evidence points towards an increase in the numbers of young South African, New Zealand and Australians, alongside Europeans and Degree Americans residing in these areas. Census 2001 data shows that White Others have the highest proportion of 18-29 year olds in their population, No Qualifications that family composition is primarily married couples with children, single White Others have one of the highest level of residents aged 25 - 34 having person households and other types of household. The latter may indicate degree level education at 64.24%, second only to the Chinese community. shared households of young private renters as tenure for this group shows extremely high levels of private renting. Levels with no qualifications are also lower than average at 4.92%. Census 2001 data further shows that a large proportion of this population Ill health works as Managers, Professionals and Associate Professionals and is White Other residents have very low levels of ill health at 4.22%. degree educated. Evidence does therefore support the idea that many ‘White Others’ in Merton are fairly affluent and are less likely to suffer issues Percentage of households without car use of social exclusion. Statistics show a proportion of white others that are White Other residents have slightly higher than average levels of residents young, degree educated, working in high paid employment and who reside without car use at 32.82%. in the more affluent parts of the borough.

Lone Parents It should be noted although a majority of White Others have better than White Other households have the lowest level of single parent households of average outcomes, some groups with this ethnic background may face all ethnic groups at 3.59% which is well below the Merton average of increased housing stress or need, an example being East European 6.03%. asylum seekers.

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Research Report - Analysis of Housing and Social Exclusion Issues amongst Merton’s Ethnic Minorities 9 - Definitions and Methodology ward by deprivation. Comparison of concentration or absence of ethnic Sources of Information populations by rank under the Index helps gain information on whether a certain ethnic minority is concentrated in deprived or wealthy areas. This The main source of information used in analysing the ethnic make-up of may have important implications on how socially excluded ethnic Merton’s residents is 2001 Census data, using information from the Office for communities are. National Statistics standard tables. Data available from the 1991 Census is also used so that growth rates for ethnic groups and population projections Age Profile by ethnic group can be developed for 2011. Secondary sources include An age profile is important to analyse the make up of each ethnic group. information from the Greater London Authority, Office for National Statistics Certain ethnic groups may have a young population with a higher proportion and other research bodies, such as the Joseph Rowntree Foundation. of children and young people, may be largely comprised of young adults, or These provide information on London and Regional trends as well as may comprise middle and older aged people. Age profiles can be used to information on specialist topics, such as ethnicity and older people. predict the type of housing problems a large number of each ethnic group may face and may influence tenure choice. Information on the ethnic make up of Merton’s tenants and leaseholders is available from the 2002 Kwest Research Council Housing survey as well as The age groups used in the Research Report have been broken down into the Housing Needs Survey 1999. Data by ethnic group on those applying to the following groups: the authority as homeless, requiring housing advice and Housing Register needs and allocations is also available from monthly performance reports 0-17 Children and young people and central government returns e.g. P1E forms. 18 - 29 Young adults 30 - 44 Adults Analysis is based upon the ethnic categories used in the 2001 Census. It 45 - 64 Middle aged should be noted that although comprehensive, these categories do not 65 - 84 Older include all the ethnic groups in Merton’s population. Examples of ethnic 85+ Very old groups covered by larger groupings include Tamil (included in Asian Other), South African (included in White Other) and Korean (included in Chinese Definitions also include: Other / Other). Older People all people over 65. Demographic Data Working Age people aged 18 - 64. Distribution Mapping the distribution of ethnic groups is important so that analysis can be made on whether ethnic groups are evenly spread throughout the borough or are concentrated in certain areas. Ward level analysis also allows comparison with the Index of Multiple Deprivation 2000 which ranks every

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Population Projections for 2011 people lack one room or more, so differences between severe overcrowding Population projections using growth and decrease rates calculated from and overcrowding cannot be ascertained. It should be noted that statistics from the 1991 and 2001 Censuses have allowed us to project both overcrowding levels are based on the assumption that every household growth and decreases amongst ethnic groups in Merton. requires a minimum of two common rooms (Census 2001 methodology).

Under Occupation Housing Under occupation, whether households have more rooms than they need to function, uses the Census definition of + 2 rooms or more extra. This may Tenure determine which ethnic groups are living in larger properties proportional to Analysis of tenure is useful to determine if certain ethnic groups are their household size. Many ethnic groups with an older age profile may show concentrated in different tenures and if they are different from the average higher levels of under occupation as adult children move out of the family figures for the borough as a whole. Variations may be due to a number of home leaving remaining household members with more rooms than they factors such as economic factors, tenure preference or demographic require. history. Residents generally have a preference for owner occupation although this may not be true for all groups with younger people often preferring to rent. High levels of ethnic groups in social housing or the private rented sector may indicate high levels of housing need or lack of mobility into owner occupation.

Population amongst Merton’s Tenants and Leaseholders Statistics for Merton’s tenants and leaseholders are found in the Kwest Housing Survey 2002. This survey interviewed 10% of Merton’s tenants and fulfils ODPM guidelines being +/- 4% accurate.

House Conditions and Overcrowding Levels of overcrowding and housing quality are important factors in determining whether residents face increasing housing stress, leading to housing problems. Thermal efficiency is one measure of the Decent Homes standard and although Census data does not contain this information, it does contain data on levels of properties without central heating. Levels of households who lack central heating helps to determine which ethnic groups may face heating difficulties or lack modern facilities. Statistics are taken from the Census 2001. Overcrowding levels using Census data show only if

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may face problems in gaining employment due to a range of factors. These Social Exclusion Data may include racism or lack of educational or training opportunities. Employment and Occupation Percentage of 16 – 24 Year Olds in Full Time Study Analysis of type of employment by ethnic group can help to determine the Educational attainment and continuing study is one influence in a person’s proportion for each ethnic group who are in higher earning sectors, such as future economic well-being. Changes to the economy have led to greater management and professions and in lesser paid work such as elementary skills being required for most jobs and educational and training influences and process and plant work. employment potential. Looking at levels of study by ethnic minority group may help to determine future economic outcomes. Using data from the It can also help show which job areas ethnic groups may prefer or find 2001 Census it is possible to evaluate the level of population of 16 to 24 easier to access. Census Data 2001 categories have been broadly divided year olds in study or training – this would include six form and further/higher into: education study. It should be noted that national studies have shown that many ethnic minorities study at newer universities or further education • A - Managerial, professional and associate professional establishments, which are often located in urban areas e.g. London. High • B - Administrative and secretarial costs of living in London and other influences such as the need to reside at • C - Skilled trade home for cultural reasons may also increase rates of study for ethnic • D - Personnel services and customer service minorities studying in Merton. This may contrast to the White population who • E - Process and plant and elementary may attend university at other establishments throughout the country. Low participation in study has also been highlighted in national studies amongst A full definition of these groups can be found at the Office for National Black Caribbean and White British young males. Statistics. Analysis uses the broad assumption that residents in group A will be economically better off than residents in Group E but it should be noted It should be noted that ethnic communities with higher or lower than average that this assumption does not hold for all individuals. An example might be a levels of 16 – 17 year olds in their population may well influence levels of skilled plumber or builder being on comparative levels of income to a study, with many 16-17 year olds in their community having higher levels of manager. Employment also does not indicate levels of disposable income, study and communities with low levels of 16 –17 year olds having low levels which may be influenced by family size, housing costs or other factors. of study. This is due to the fact that many people of this age are still in Statistics have been analysed by looking at the percentage of all workers in academic or vocational training and should be considered as a variable each occupational group by ethnic origin. when analysing data. Unemployment Rates Qualifications of 25 –34 year olds Levels of unemployment amongst ethnic groups is determined using figures The level of residents educated to degree level or higher (for those aged 25 from the Census Data 2001, using statistics on economic active individuals – 34) is one factor in assessing how different ethnic groups are fairing in and the levels of these who are classified as unemployed. Unemployment gaining higher paid or graduate employment. Studies have shown that on may be short or long term but it should be noted that certain ethnic groups

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average and over time graduates earn more than non-graduates. Levels of Lone Parents 25 – 34 year olds with degrees or higher may also show how economically Single parents (with children under 18) often experience poverty and are less mobile this age group is, with opportunities to move between jobs. Of equal well off economically than other family units (Galbraith 1999). Childcare importance is the number of residents in this age group who have no commitments may prevent lone parents taking paid employment whilst qualifications. This may prevent them competing for certain jobs and allow childcare in itself constitutes full time (unpaid) work. Analysis of 2001 Census only limited or low paid work. Levels of qualifications may be influenced by data shows that 91% of lone parents in Merton are female-headed how new a community is to Merton, with some asylum seekers or recent households. Data is analysed from Census 2001 statistics. migrants lacking British qualifications. It may also be influenced by the emphasis different ethnic groups give to educational attainment. Low levels of attainment may also be influenced by how well ethnic groups do at school due to structural factors such as social class, poverty and deprivation or cultural factors.

Ill Health Levels of ill health amongst ethnic groups is important to determine if certain Contacts ethnic groups have more health issues than other groups. Some ill health may be associated with poor housing or occupation or industry and may If you have any comments or questions about this report, please do not prevent future ability to work. It should be noted that ill health usually hesitate to contact Daniel Butler, Policy Officer, at the following address: correlates to increasing age and populations with an older age profile may have higher rates of ill health. Housing Strategy and Development Team Percentage of Households without cars Housing and Social Services Department Households that lack car use are reliant on public transport and may face 5th floor, Civic Centre exclusion if public transport links are poor. Decreased levels of disposable London Borough of Merton income due to isolation or reliance on expensive corner shops make the London Road poor more disadvantaged. An example might be a single mother with two Morden children who lives two bus rides away from a large superstore and has to Surrey rely on local shops which offer less choice and are more expensive. SM4 5DX These issues may contribute to social exclusion and affect the purchasing power of poorer residents. Lack of car use may also affect journeys to By e-mailing: [email protected] work or schools. or by phoning: 020 8545 3685

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